As a cineaste, I agree, there is no replacement for the big screen. But don't discount the influence of the pictures themselves on young minds and small screens. I loved the PBS series Matinee at the Bijou as a 10-year-old in the early 80's. Sure, it would have been great to have the experience of seeing those shorts and serials in the theater as so many children of that era have gone on to reminisce in articles, books and in their own films. I enjoy the memory of seeing Buster Crabbe as Flash Gordon on my 13" TV in my own way.
As a cineaste, I agree, there is no replacement for the big screen. But don't discount the influence of the pictures themselves on young minds and small screens. I loved the PBS series Matinee at the Bijou as a 10-year-old in the early 80's. Sure, it would have been great to have the experience of seeing those shorts and serials in the theater as so many children of that era have gone on to reminisce in articles, books and in their own films. I enjoy the memory of seeing Buster Crabbe as Flash Gordon on my 13" TV in my own way.